
Bangladesh Government Approves First Offshore Wind Project, Summit Group Announces
Posted 07/11/2023 12:31
Summit Group, in collaboration with Denmark's Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and Copenhagen Offshore Partners (COP), has received the green light from the Bangladesh government for an ambitious offshore wind energy venture. The proposed project, with an estimated value of USD 1.3 billion, aims to establish Bangladesh's inaugural 500 MW utility-scale offshore wind energy facility, marking a significant step toward the country's renewable energy objectives.
The project, slated to be situated offshore of Cox's Bazar district, has been granted site exclusivity and approval for a comprehensive feasibility study by the government. Once operational, the offshore wind farm will provide electricity directly to the national grid through an onshore substation, catering to the energy needs of homes and businesses across the region.
Notably, this initiative arrives at a crucial juncture for Bangladesh, given its substantial dependence on costly fossil fuel imports, which have been susceptible to global price fluctuations. The project aligns with the nation's overarching goal of accelerating the development of large-scale renewable energy infrastructure while simultaneously embracing climate resilience technologies, thereby facilitating sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction by 2041.
The project holds the promise of generating significant employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, during its construction and operational phases. With projections indicating a substantial need for funding in Bangladesh's transition to green energy, Summit, CIP, and COP anticipate that their substantial investment will stimulate a new wave of domestic and foreign investments, propelling the nation toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.
Moreover, the proposed offshore wind project, a pioneering endeavor in Bangladesh and potentially South Asia, is expected to serve as a catalyst for technology transfer and industry advancement, facilitating future projects and minimizing technological barriers. With a vision for a thriving renewable energy sector, Summit Group and its partners aim to set a precedent for the region, fostering sustainable development and environmental stewardship.